By KAZUKI ENDO/ Staff Writer
February 13, 2025 at 08:00 JST
Northern Japan Alps seen from Azumino, Nagano Prefecture (Asahi Shimbun file photo)
NAGANO--For the 19th year in a row, Nagano ranked as simply the best in terms of prefecture to relocate to for people seeking a better quality of life.
The ranking was compiled by monthly magazine Inaka Gurashi no Hon (Country life book) based on a reader questionnaire.
Its Tokyo-based publisher, Takarajimasha Inc., announced the findings in the magazine’s February issue.
The mountainous prefecture in central Japan has been making steady efforts over the years to lure prospective residents.
The local government organized seminars in the three metropolitan areas around Tokyo, Osaka and Nagoya on more than 40 occasions this fiscal year that focused on themes such as childrearing and nature, farming as a way of life and experiences with hot springs and saunas.
In a Jan. 6 news conference, Nagano Governor Shuichi Abe cited the prefecture’s rich natural surroundings and convenient access from major urban zones, among other strengths.
“By improving educational and other conditions, we will continue to advance our endeavor to make the prefecture even more appealing so that people will feel like relocating here,” he added.
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